The worst pandemic might be behind us, but the world is still reeling from its aftereffects. The world of car dealerships was one such area that took the hit due to the lack of supply of new cars in the market.
The demand for used cars increased as people feared risking infection and limited using public transport. And the increased demand for used cars led to a price hike as only a few people were ready to sell their cars, making it difficult for used car dealers to procure vehicles for sale.
Price Hike for Used Cars During the Pandemic
The pandemic led to people investing in pre-owned vehicles, causing a price hike never experienced. The price of used cars peaked at $28,205 in December 2021, a steep 42% rise from the 2019 stats before the pandemic. However, April 2022 saw a decline in the sale of pre-owned vehicles and a slight drop in the price, providing some relief.
Checklist for Buyers Looking for a Used Car
Looking through the collection of a dealer offering used cars for sale in Inland Empire involves the same process as anywhere else. You must choose a model according to your preferences, take a test drive, negotiate the price, and be updated with the smog laws of the state of California. And here is a checklist that will help new buyers purchase a used car:
1. Check for Valid Documentation
Checking the documents should be the first step to buying any used vehicle. It gives you an idea of what you are getting into and lets you know if you are chasing a dead deal. For instance, the vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number can give you all the necessary information regarding the car’s history.
2. Taking the Car for a Test Drive
Taking the pre-owned car for a test drive is the most critical aspect of buying a used vehicle. So, check for any lights that come on and need an inspection, and look out for any odor. Also, look for some other things like:
- Condition of the tires and spare tires.
- The smooth functioning of the brakes.
- Any fluid leaks or steam.
- State of the AC, lights, and blinkers.
- Functioning of all the doors and windows.
3. Inspection by a Mechanic
Before making the final purchase, ensure you get a trustworthy mechanic to check the car thoroughly. If you buy a used car from a dealership, they may not allow you to take the vehicle to a mechanic for a check-up. Thus, find services that will come to you and assist in the inspection.
4. Pricing Options
You should know your pricing options beforehand. And the car pricing will depend on where you are purchasing the used vehicle. As such, a private seller may cost you the least, whereas buying a CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicle will cost you the most as they have long-term warranties.
Investing in a used car is beneficial in Inland Empire, especially in an uncertain economy and unpredictable pandemic aftermath. As the costs of used cars are declining, with experts believing that they will reach normal levels soon, it is wise to invest in them.
Thus, it would be best to find a trusted dealer for a used car for sale in Inland Empire. And before heading to a certified dealership, you must conduct thorough research on the car models, pricing, and documentation.